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Pathology Lab Assistant

MercyOne
Des Moines, IA Full Time
POSTED ON 1/2/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 2/1/2026
Employment Type

Full time

Shift

Day Shift

Description

Join the MercyOne Family! We are looking to hire a Lab Assistant.

As a Lab Assistant at MercyOne, you may work in various laboratory departments to collect blood specimens from hospital patients, work with microbiology or anatomic pathology specimens, or work independently at remote Patient Service Centers. Creates patient encounters, orders laboratory tests, and prepares specimens for testing. Assists technical personnel in sample log-in, testing workflow, and specimen tracking, as appropriate for patient age including neonates, infants, children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric adults.

  • Assists in gross room.
  • Prepares area and assists pathologists for frozen section testing.
  • Distribution/filing of slides and blocks.
  • Accepts specimens and requisitions from external and internal customers utilizing excellent customer service skills.
  • Identifies patients/specimens using two unique patient identifiers and accurately labels specimen containers.
  • Correctly registers specimens and logs into Laboratory Information System (LIS) appropriate to department where testing is to be performed as needed, or evaluates specimen adequacy and acceptability and logs into LIS.
  • Performs specimen processing as needed. For example, proper identification, aliquoting, plate streaking, preparing slides, special handling, and required documentation.
  • Follows established procedures and policies including infection control and bloodborne pathogens.
  • Handles chemicals according to established safety protocols.
  • Meets defined workload productivity standards. Supports and utilizes LEAN principles.
  • Works proficiently with laboratory information systems and personal computers.
  • Follows established procedures and policies to obtain optimal test turn-around-times.
  • Participates in teaching peers.
  • Handles incoming and outgoing telephone calls utilizing good customer service skills and knowledge of the laboratory.
  • Follows up on and documents out of range temperatures.

Schedule: Full Time Monday-Friday Day Shift, no holidays or weekends.

General Requirements

  • Proof of completion of Mandatory Reporter abuse training specific to population served within 3 months of hire.
  • Knowledge of medical terminology and laboratory experience preferred.
  • Computer skills required

Education

  • High school diploma or GED required.

Colleagues of MercyOne Health System enjoy competitive compensation with a full benefits package and opportunity for growth throughout the system!

Visit MercyOne Careers to learn more about the benefits, culture, and career development opportunities available to you at MercyOne Health System circle of care.

Our Commitment

Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.

Salary.com Estimation for Pathology Lab Assistant in Des Moines, IA
$64,423 to $90,764
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